The Centre for Diversity, Inclusivity and Social Change (CDISC) recently brought together participants for an inspiring Microaggression and Cultural Humility Online training, led by the insightful Brightness Mangolothi, Director of CDISC.

The workshop brought together staff and students, and Mangolothi emphasised that the workshop's importance lies not only in raising awareness but in cultivating transformational practice. The workshop unpacked microaggressions, whether overt micro-assaults, subtle micro-insults, or dismissive micro-invalidations, as behaviours that, though often unintended, undermine psychological safety, trust, and collaboration. Examples such as questioning a Black woman’s leadership competence or praising a colleague for being “articulate” in ways that imply surprise illustrated how everyday interactions can perpetuate exclusion.

“The training situated these discussions within the university’s core values of kindness, restoration, unity, passion, accountability, and technological astuteness. Participants reflected on how these values are lived out or neglected in daily practice, creating a foundation for honest dialogue and collective responsibility,” Mangolothi remarked. She said by linking microaggression awareness to institutional values, the session reinforced that inclusion is not an abstract ideal but a lived commitment. Mangolothi said the critical dimension of the workshop was the exploration of systems of privilege and power. Participants examined how hierarchies are reinforced through language, culture, and institutional practices, and how intentional reflection can transform privilege into tools for accountability and equity.

“Equally important was the introduction of cultural humility as a lifelong practice. Unlike cultural competence, which suggests mastery of another’s culture, cultural humility calls for continuous self-reflection, listening, and accountability.”

Staff and students were guided on how to respond when they commit a microaggression: pause, acknowledge harm, apologise sincerely, and commit to change. Mangolothi said this shift from defensiveness to dialogue is essential for building inclusive spaces.

Practical strategies were shared to mitigate microaggressions, including empowering bystanders to become upstanders, documenting incidents, and ensuring multiple reporting pathways. “These measures strengthen trust and embed transformation into everyday interactions.”

Mangolothi underscored that the workshop is not merely about awareness, “but about embedding inclusion into the DNA of the institution”. “Ultimately, the session affirmed that cultural humility and microaggression awareness are integral to CPUT’s mission of shaping a better world. By embedding these practices, the university becomes a living embodiment of its values where every interaction advances social justice, human dignity, and belonging.”

Written by CPUT News
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Elias Chipofya, a doctoral candidate at the Applied Microbial and Health Biotechnology Institute (AMHBI), recently presented his research to an international audience.

He participated in the 14th International Brain Research Organisation and International Society for Neurochemistry-sponsored Africa Advanced School in Neuroscience on Neuroimmunology and Neuroinflammation.

The programme brought together emerging scientists and leading experts to explore communication between the immune system and the nervous system.

Hosted by the Africa Centre for Advanced Training in Neuroscience (ACATN), the programme began at the Mohammed V University and the Hassan II Agronomic and Veterinary Institute in Rabat, Morocco, where students engaged in advanced laboratory and behavioural methods, animal and insect models, brain tissue preparation, and modern analytical techniques.

The cohort then relocated to the Middle Atlas Mountains for an academic retreat. Under the guidance of an international faculty, participants explored fundamental brain science, immune system interactions, and neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and depression, alongside professional development in journal clubs, grant writing, and career planning.

The programme culminated in a scientific conference day hosted by the Moroccan Association for Neuroscience. Elias, supervised by Dr Taskeen Docrat and Prof Jeanine Marnewick, presented his doctoral research on novel molecular mechanisms linking Alzheimer's disease and exploring how Rooibos herbal tea can serve as a preventive strategy. These presentations highlighted South African scientific contributions to international neuroscience, supporting Elias in his research investigating the protective properties of Rooibos extracts against neurodegenerative pathways.

“Attending the Advanced Neuroscience School in Morocco was a transformative experience for my doctoral research. The programme exposed me to leading international experts and innovative approaches to understanding brain health and disease,” he said.

“It broadened my perspective on how simple research models can help answer complex questions about neurological disorders and provided valuable skills and knowledge that I can apply to my own work. I return inspired and better equipped to advance research on plant-based therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, while contributing to African-led scientific solutions for brain health. I am grateful to my supervisors, the Applied Microbial and Health Biotechnology Institute (AMHBI), CPUT, and IBRO-ISN for making this opportunity possible."

Written by CPUT News
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Bathed in sparkle and excitement, the Centre for Diversity, Inclusivity and Social Change (CDISC) recently brought together inspiring women, including Thuli Madonsela, a Professor of Law at Stellenbosch University, who delivered a keynote address at the Women's Celebration Breakfast at Bellville Campus.

This uplifting gathering revolved around the empowering theme: “Planning for the Next Level: Leading Self, Leading with Others, and Understanding Processes and Systems.” In her opening address, Prof Henriette Hay-Swemmer, Executive Director: Vice-Chancellor’s Office, said this year has particular significance. “It marks 70 years since the historic Women's March of 1956. Those women did not march because it was convenient. They marched because they understood that equality would never simply arrive.

“They organised. They challenged. They acted.”

Hay-Swemmer noted that 70 years later, South African women have achieved extraordinary things. “Women lead universities, courts, businesses, laboratories, hospitals, communities and households. Women occupy spaces from which previous generations were deliberately excluded.”

She also stated that South Africa's first national GBV prevalence study found that approximately 7.3 million women aged 18 and older have experienced physical violence during their lifetime, while more than 2.1 million have experienced sexual violence.

“We need courageous conversations in which young men can interrogate masculinity without immediately feeling accused; where they can challenge one another; where positive male role models are visible; and where respect for women is understood not as weakness or political correctness, but as fundamental human decency.”

In her input titled: “Advancing Women’s Voices and Representation at CPUT”, Ncediwe Qomoyi, Director: Human Capital, asked all the women to acknowledge something very important: “You are beautiful, you are blessed, and you have a voice. And that voice can take two forms: your inner voice and your outer voice.”

Qomoyi continued: “Your inner voice is the quiet voice within you. It is your thoughts, your feelings, your intuition, your fears, your hopes, and the conversations you have with yourself. Sometimes, that voice tells you that you are tired, that you need support, or

that something is not right. But too often, we keep that voice to ourselves because we are afraid of being judged, misunderstood, or perceived as weak. Then there is your outer voice. Your outer voice is the courage to take what is inside you and express it to the world. It is the courage to speak up, to ask for help, to share your ideas, to challenge what is wrong, to advocate for yourself and others, and to make your presence known.”

In her powerful talk themed: “Women in Higher Education, Justice, and Social Change – 30 years of the Constitution”, Madonsela reminded the guests that transformation requires discipline and foresight, not noise: “it’s not the thunder that grows things, it’s the rain that comes”, and that power is not for settling scores but for serving with justice and fairness . She challenged the guests to practice Epic Leadership by asking before acting if it is ethical, purposeful, impactful and free of unintended consequences, to embrace a growth mindset where resilience defines leaders and mistakes become learning, to “ground ourselves in Identity Quotient (IDQ) by defining who we are rather than letting others dictate our identity and reacting from fear, to pursue justice beyond the courts as a relational, daily practice rooted in fairness, gender and social justice, and to multiply leadership by elevating others so that those around us are empowered to thrive”.

She noted that many young women and men say nothing has changed since the adoption of the Constitution. Madonsela noted that if one says nothing has changed, one disempowers oneself, because one then starts thinking change is impossible. She said she learned to acknowledge small changes many years ago. “Don't look up to see how far you still have to go. Look back to see how far you've gone, because that energises you to realise that you've got something in you; there's something invincible in you that can take you forward.”

Lebo Monyatsi, Head of the Financial Education Unit at SANLAM, also delivered a Financial Inclusion Talk, emphasising that financial empowerment is women's empowerment. Monyatsi challenged women to look beyond budgeting to resilience and foresight — confronting the paradox that women own the majority of residential property in South Africa yet are disproportionately blacklisted, the 30% gender pay gap that leaves them with 21–29% less retirement provision despite living longer, and the trap of “sexually transmitted debt” where women take loans for blacklisted partners and are left with the debt.

Monyatsi also urged early planning, retirement annuities, estate planning and understanding marital regimes, linking economic dependence to gender-based violence and economic independence to safety and freedom. This session formed part of CPUT's Memorandum of Agreement with Sanlam to advance financial empowerment for staff and students.

Meanwhile, outgoing CDISC Director Brightness Mangolothi delivered closing remarks and a vote of thanks.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

With vibrant pride in our many cultures, identities, and shared heritage, the Centre for Diversity, Inclusivity and Social Change (CDISC) recently brought the spirit of Heritage Day to life at Granger Bay Campus during the Institutional Heritage Day Commemoration.

The Heritage Commemoration brought the CPUT community together to celebrate and appreciate South Africa’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. The CDISC, in collaboration with the Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships (SIP) Directorate, CPUT Libraries, Division of Student Affairs and the Marketing and Communication Department, aimed to encourage reflection on our history, identities, traditions and cultural expressions.

Ayabonga Mxunyelwa from CDISC noted that the purpose was not simply to celebrate Heritage Day, “but to create a meaningful space where members of the CPUT community could engage with different perspectives on heritage, learn from one another and appreciate the diversity that exists within our institution and broader society”.

“We wanted the event to encourage dialogue about identity, culture, history, and belonging, while also giving students and staff an opportunity to express heritage through music, poetry, fashion and academic discussion.”

In her welcoming address, Dr Regina Sikhosana, CPUT Libraries Deputy Director, said members of the CPUT community have a unique responsibility to use their knowledge, innovation, and influence to contribute to positive change. “Through education, research, community engagement, and ethical leadership, we can help build a South Africa where diversity is celebrated, where women are empowered, where children are protected, and where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.”

Sikhosana continued: “Let us remember that our greatest heritage is our shared humanity. Let us honour those who came before us by building a future grounded in dignity, respect, and justice. Let us stand together against violence and hatred and embrace the values that make us stronger as a nation.”

She said Heritage Day should inspire people to keep building bridges across cultures, support one another in times of difficulty, and work collectively toward a safer, more inclusive, and more prosperous South Africa.

In his keynote address, titled: “Writing in African Languages: Celebrating Our Living Heritage”, CPUT Libraries Director Dr Siviwe Bangani said libraries, together with museums, galleries and arts centres, are recognised as important heritage institutions that serve as dynamic spaces for lifelong learning, social cohesion and intercultural dialogue. “The work of language revitalisation and reclamation, as Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o has consistently reminded us, can therefore serve as a bridge between heritage as preservation and heritage as contemporary practice.”

Bangani said the government describes living heritage as the foundation of communities and an essential source of identity and continuity. “It includes cultural traditions, oral history, performance, ritual, popular memory, skills and techniques, indigenous knowledge systems, and the holistic relationships between nature, society and people.

“Importantly, the South African context uses the term ‘living heritage’ interchangeably with ‘intangible cultural heritage’.

Central Student Representative Council Housing Committee and Welfare Officer, Lutho Mphithi, noted that CPUT brings together students from different cultures, languages and backgrounds, saying that, “Our diversity should unite us rather than divide us” and that, “Our heritage shapes our identity and reminds us of the sacrifices made by previous generations”.

“As students, we have a responsibility to understand and preserve our history, languages and traditions. Celebrating heritage should not be limited to one day a year. It should be part of our everyday lives.”

Dr Fundiswa Nofemela, Director of Community Engagement and Work-Integrated Learning, offered a heartfelt reflection on South Africa’s heritage, highlighting the importance of honouring the people, histories, and stories that have woven the nation’s identity. Her address inspired attendees to see heritage not just as echoes from the past, but as a living force that continues to shape the fabric of modern South African society.

The event came alive with students' vibrant cultural performances, stirring poetry, and the dazzling “Drape of Africa” heritage garments showcase, infusing the programme with fresh energy and celebrating creative expressions of heritage.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The 2nd International Conference on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI (ICAILY 2026) recently transformed the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre into a vibrant hub, uniting academics, industry leaders, researchers, and students in a lively global conversation about the future of artificial intelligence.

The core theme for ICAILY 2026 was Current Research · Industry Trends · Innovation, with a strong focus on responsible AI, industrial AI, intelligent systems, and Agentic AI. Ali Almaktoof, Associate Professor of Power Systems and Head of the Centre for Research in Power Systems (CRPS), shared that the three-day ICAILY 2026 achieved its main goals. He explained that holding the conference in a hybrid format worked very well, allowing participants from Brazil, Libya, Germany, China, Algeria, Japan, Egypt, Argentina, Nigeria, India, Malaysia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Pakistan, and many other countries to join, either in person or online, along with delegates from all over South Africa.

“The calibre of research presented, the depth of the discussions, and the enthusiastic engagement of our students all confirm that this event was a resounding success by every meaningful measure.”

Two moments stand out above all others. The first was witnessing more than 40 CPUT students actively participating in the hands-on training and workshops across the three days; watching them learn directly from international experts, engage with cutting-edge AI tools, and ask insightful questions was deeply rewarding.

Almaktoof was also impressed by the questions and comments raised by the CPUT students during the high-level panel discussions and keynote sessions throughout the conference. He said their level of engagement was remarkable and drew unsolicited acknowledgement from the international guests and experts, including keynote speakers, who remarked on the depth and sophistication of the students' contributions.

“That recognition, coming from world-class researchers and practitioners, made me immensely proud of our students and of CPUT.”

The keynote addresses were equally outstanding, and the Awards and Distinguished Guests Recognition Ceremony, particularly the recognition of the top three best research articles, was a fitting tribute to the exceptional quality of work presented.

For the Department of Electrical, Electronic & Computer Engineering, together with the CRPS, the event reaffirmed their position as a leading centre for AI and emerging technology research in Africa. For CPUT as a whole, it elevated the institution’s international standing, deepened CPUT's partnership with the ICAILY International Foundation, and delivered tangible, free-of-charge skills development to students and staff. The fact that all accepted papers will be published as book chapters with Springer Nature is a significant achievement for CPUT researchers and a testament to the quality of work produced.

Almaktoof noted that events like ICAILY 2026 do not happen by chance; they happen because people commit, collaborate, and believe in the value of international engagement. “I encourage every CPUT student and staff member to participate in future editions, to submit their research, and to use platforms such as this to grow professionally and academically.

“CPUT is more than capable of competing on a global stage, and this conference has proven it.”

The chairman and conference chair for ICAILY 2026, A/Prof Dr Ali Othman Al-Baji, who also serves as the Chairperson of the ICAILY International Foundation, expressed his sincere appreciation for the event. “I am deeply impressed by the overall organisation and spirit of ICAILY 2026 at CPUT. The conference was a resounding success, both in person and online, and I was particularly struck by how seamlessly CPUT brought together its students and staff as one unified team,” Al-Baji remarked.

He was also impressed by the students' enthusiasm throughout the conference. It is clear that CPUT is nurturing a generation of talented and confident young professionals.”

Al-Baji was struck by the seamless teamwork between CPUT staff and students, saying that everyone worked as one team, from the technical and support staff to the academic leadership and the students themselves, and this unity was the foundation of the conference's success. “The professionalism, warmth, and hospitality extended to our international guests were outstanding.”

He added that CPUT should be proud of what was achieved “here”. “I look forward to strengthening our partnership and to welcoming even greater international participation in the years ahead.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Every year fourth-year Radiation Therapy students in the Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences Department, under the leadership of Dr Neo Seane, are granted the opportunity to step out of the classroom and into a working radiation biology laboratory — an experience that consistently ranks among the most formative of their training.

This year was no exception as students once again travelled to NRF iThemba laboratories for accelerator-based sciences (LABS) to take part in the hands-on radiation biology experiments. The experiments investigated the effect of radiation on different human breast cancer cell lines.

For these students who have spent most of the year studying radiation biology in theory, observing the effect of radiation at cellular level gave them a better understanding of the radiation response and radiation side-effects that they observe on patients in the clinical departments. The hands-on laboratory practical also gave the students an opportunity to observe the differences in biological behaviour of the different human breast cancer cells lines, i.e. aggressive triple negative MDA-MB-231 cell line compared to the slow growing oestrogen and progesterone receptors positive MCF-7 cell line. As the country grapples with the sharp increase in cancer incidences, this type pf training is crucial to ensure that the students develop to be critically thinking graduates that can optimally use the available resources for the benefit of the cancer patients under their care.

Seane indicated that none of this would be possible without the continued support of the Southern African Institute for Nuclear Technology and Sciences’ (SAINTS) training and education division and the radiation biology team at iThemba LABS, coordinated by Dr Peter du Plessis, alongside Dr Xanthene Miles and Dr Samantha Cairncross, and intern Mr Ayyoob Adams.

Over the years, this collaboration has grown from a single annual visit — to being an essential part of the students’ training for at least two weeks. Each year the SAINTS division provides transport to and from iThemba LABS for the students as well as a celebratory lunch on the last day of the project. She said SAINTS exist precisely to

make training experiences like this one possible, and this project is a clear example of that mission in action.

“We are deeply grateful for their continued support as the partnership continues to grow year after year.”

Written by CPUT News
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Faculty of Business and Management Sciences (FBMS) Heritage Day Celebration was recently held at the District Six Campus, giving the Faculty an opportunity to come together and celebrate our different cultures, traditions, and identities through food and cultural expression.

Under the theme “A Celebration of Cultural Cuisine,” the event was a collective effort involving various departments, staff members, students and the invited professional chefs. Activities included a cultural cuisine competition. However, the event was about much more than a cuisine competition. “It was about unity, resilience, teamwork and creating a space where colleagues and students could reconnect and celebrate one another.

We wanted to demonstrate that our diversity is one of our strengths and that, despite the challenges we may experience as a Faculty and institution, we can still come together, be creative and celebrate what we have. Most importantly, I wanted the event to remind us of what we can achieve when we work together,” FBMS Language Coordinator, Nobuhle Luphondo, noted.

Five departments took part in the Cultural Cuisine Competition: Tourism and Events Management, Human Resource Management, Management and Project Management, Sport Management, and Operations Management. Each department brought its own team, creativity and cultural identity to the event. Noluthando Dube-Cele, who also served as a guest speaker and Asithandile Ndamase, both CPUT alumnae, joined as professional chefs and as judges for the competition.

The modest Luphondo said success was not measured only by the competition or the number of participants. “For me, the greatest measure of success was seeing people show up, participate, work together and celebrate one another.”

The judges were impressed by the effort, creativity, cultural representation, presentation and teamwork demonstrated by the participating departments. “It was wonderful to see colleagues taking ownership of their contributions and putting so much thought into their cultural displays and cuisine. Although we had to announce first, second and third place because it was a competition, every department that participated was a winner in its own way.

“The real achievement was bringing people together. There were many memorable moments, but one of the biggest highlights for me was seeing the departments come together and embrace the spirit of the event.”

The student performances were another highlight; music, dance, poetry and cultural expression brought so much energy and joy to the programme.

Luphondo shared the Dube-Cele message: “Her reflection that ‘a plate represents togetherness’ really captured the essence of what we were trying to achieve.”

Luphondo continued: “She also used the beautiful analogy that 'a chakalaka never tells beetroot how to behave on their plate.’ That message stayed with me because it speaks to how we can celebrate our individuality while still belonging to the same community. We do not have to be the same to come together.”

The event demonstrated the diversity, creativity and resilience within the Faculty. It showed that departments have much more to offer when they create opportunities to collaborate and celebrate together. “For CPUT, Heritage Day is an opportunity to recognise that our institution is made up of people from different cultural, linguistic and social backgrounds. Our diversity should not simply be acknowledged; it should be celebrated and valued as part of who we are.”

Luphondo added: “I would encourage the CPUT community to continue creating spaces where people can share their cultures, languages, talents, stories and experiences. Let us show up for one another. Let us celebrate one another. Let us continue to build a community where everyone feels that they belong.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Staff and students from the Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences (MITS) Department showcased their research and expertise at a recent symposium hosted by the Western Cape branch of the Society of Radiographers of South Africa (SORSA) and vendor Siemens Healthineers.

The symposium, held at Groote Schuur Hospital, brought together students, academics and clinical staff under the theme: Radiographers of the future.

A highlight of the event was the quality of the student presentations, which demonstrated the important role that students can play in shaping conversations about the future of the profession.

The presentations included a reflection on the Service-Learning project, Honouring the Frontline, by presenters Ayanda Mokoena and Chante Josias.

Hamida Moosa-Bayat and Janike Smith demonstrated MediMind, a game they developed. With their lecturers, they co-published an article in the Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences.

Fatimah Francis and Kamishka Naidoo presented their work on a mobile gamma camera initiative – part of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Bringing Hope to Africa campaign.

The programme also featured presentations from MITS academics and postgraduates.

Dr Maria Hartnick reflected on the importance of clinical mentoring, while Yanda Peter shared findings from her doctoral research into the professional socialisation of diagnostic radiography students in relation to global engagement.

Yolanda Le Roux-Arries took delegates back to the COVID-19 pandemic, sharing findings from her master’s research into the experiences of diagnostic radiography middle managers during this challenging period.

The symposium also included a pre-recorded presentation by Dr Gerhardus Koch on the topic of Service-Learning as an approach to develop socially aware medical imaging and therapeutic sciences graduates.

“The success of the event was in the fruitful discussions between these stakeholders, with the students contributing meaningfully,” said Dr Lizel Hudson, Work-Integrated Learning and Language Coordinator for the Faculty.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Faculty of Applied Sciences recently held the Heritage Day commemoration at Bellville Campus, an event that serves as an opportunity for staff and students to come together and celebrate the rich heritage of the faculty and for the different academic departments in the faculty to showcase aspects of heritage embodied in the discipline while showcasing the fun side of science.

Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Prof Joseph Kioko, warmly greeted the large gathering of guests, setting a welcoming tone for the event. Kioko also reminded the guests that people without knowledge of their culture are like a tree without roots. “If you don’t know your past, you will not know your future.”

Highlights of this successful event included impressive attendance: over 100 in-person and over 300 online participants. The high-quality presentations and performances that showcased science and Indigenous knowledge in engaging ways were also highlights. Faculty of Applied Sciences Language Coordinator Ignatius Ticha said this year’s event was unique, as it followed a period of fragility and served as a useful space and opportunity for “students and staff to reimagine the beauty of our oneness as a faculty and an institution”.

“In spite of the circumstances preceding the event, the event set new highs and standards. The organisers worked with so little in so little time to put together an impressive celebration…”

In his address, Dr Kabelo Sebolai, the Institutional Language Coordinator, highlighted the significant elements of heritage that we cannot see but that are embodied in language. Sebolai highlighted the role of language and linguistic inclusivity at CPUT, and how science is an integral aspect of heritage communicated through language. Ticha noted that t Sebolai’s views were affirmed by a powerful and evocative praise poem by Thembisa Kobo, a student from the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment.

The Department of Biotechnology and Consumer Sciences students, led by Dr Maxwell Ngongang, delivered a vibrant presentation introducing us to isilawu, its preparation, and its functions. A key focus of the presentation was the scientific basis of isilawu, its potential, and the role of scientists in traditional practices. “By linking traditional practices to important realities such as sustainability, the presenters identified collaboration with local communities as key,” Ticha observed.

Thembile Gcukumeni, a community partner from the Tembaletu Centre, demonstrated the value of resilience through his lived experiences and offered useful advice on various aspects, including ecology, the real value of education, and how our lives are linked to the ancestral. The audience was enthralled and captivated by Anathi Mobo, a Cape Town-based singer, educator, and accomplished jazz vocalist with a Master's degree from the University of Cape Town. She is also the daughter of staff member Mmabatho Mobo. Mobo is a recognised performer and award-winning vocalist who has appeared on major South African stages while also teaching privately and in schools.

Agriculture Lecturer Dr Zukisani Gomomo and student Tsepiso Majola from the Department of Agriculture gave an interactive presentation that highlighted the value and relevance of traditional agricultural systems and agricultural evolution. Meanwhile, Department of Food Science and Technology students in the Edible Insects group, led by Dr Vusi Mshayisa, put on a well-curated dramatisation that showed us fun ways of communicating science and how science and heritage are interlinked.

The Department of Conservation and Marine Sciences put on a performance that was not only educational but also artistically and aesthetically evocative. Continuing the trend of great artistry, Mfuneko Collin of Tembaletu thrilled the audience with his soulful music. “The event was indeed a show of the vibrant spirit of the faculty, with an audience that was really highly spirited,” Ticha observed.

Reflecting on the event, Dr Vuyokazi Mntuyedwa, an Academic Literacy Lecturer, said the Heritage Day celebration was a meaningful and insightful experience that highlighted the importance of cultural diversity, indigenous knowledge, multilingualism, and identity. “The celebration demonstrated that multilingualism and multiculturalism are important in creating inclusive spaces where individuals can express their identities, learn from one another, and develop mutual respect across cultural and linguistic differences,” Mntuyedwa observed.

She noted that the presentations demonstrated the connection between science and indigenous knowledge, particularly the importance of preserving knowledge about plants, traditional ingredients, food practices, and cultural traditions for future generations.

Ticha added that the science disciplines in the Faculty of Applied Sciences and at CPUT are rooted in a rich heritage of indigenous knowledge. “Science can be so much fun. Celebrations like Heritage Day build bridges between the university and communities, especially when community members are invited to participate, as was the case at the event.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The recent Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst/German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Community Engagement in the higher education Southern Africa Region (CESAR) international regional workshop week was held at the Flensburg University of Applied Sciences (FUAS), Germany.

CPUT joined the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) in an enriching experience in Flensburg, highlighting the value of internationalisation in broadening the community engagement perspectives within diverse university contexts.

CESAR is a vehicle for social transformation, nation building through collaborative partnerships and the creation of opportunities for improved living and knowledge exchange. In CESAR, an international trans-disciplinary team of university staff and their external community, government and industry partners collaborate through capacity building workshops and knowledge exchange project partnerships.

CESAR is an International DAAD funded project led by FUAS, in partnership with CPUT and the NUST from 2024-2027. CESAR builds partnerships across nations to share ideas, knowledge, skills, practices and experiences through CE projects in communities. SDG 17: Partnerships for the goals as a guiding framework, is the foundation to address the fields of action: Teaching, Research and Management.

The main objective of the project activities is to support the achievement of the SDGs through community engagement and social entrepreneurship initiatives in the fields of SDG 6: Affordable and clean energy; SDG 7: Clean water and sanitation; and SDG 11: Sustainable cities and communities in the Southern African context.

CESAR is fortunate to have the expertise of researchers and practitioners in the fields of Community Engagement, Entrepreneurship, Sustainable development, Urban and regional planning, Sustainable Construction, Energy, Water and sanitation, Curriculum Development; Project Management; and Engaged research.

Jacqui Scheepers, CPUT CESAR Project Leader, said of the German experience: "The intercultural experiences provided valuable insights into different educational practices, technologies, and ways of working, while also deepening my appreciation for the importance of collaboration across cultures.

“An important aspect observed was Germany's strong commitment to creating supportive environments and ecosystems that encourage entrepreneurship, innovation, and lifelong learning. The emphasis on experiential learning and the practical demonstration of skills, particularly during our visits to the Handwerkskammer and FUAS, demonstrated how theory and practice can be effectively integrated to prepare students for the world of work.”

Prof James Katenda from NUST noted that the workshop "provided a rich and multidimensional learning experience, offering valuable exposure to European models of skills development, innovation ecosystems, and sustainable enterprise. The programme was thoughtfully curated, and each activity contributed meaningfully to the project’s overarching goals of strengthening TVET systems, fostering entrepreneurship, and advancing green and inclusive development across partner countries”.

At the Handwerkskammer in Flensburg the student candidates are trained in the use and application of automotive testing and diagnosis. This approach aligns well with SA FET colleges.

Walter Kohlhofer from CPUT’s Mechanical Engineering Department said observing the German dual-training system in practice highlighted the importance of strong industry-education linkages, competency-based instruction, and well-equipped training environments. “These insights are directly relevant to CESAR’s ambition to modernise African TVET institutions and enhance the quality and relevance of skills development,” said Kohlhofer.

CESAR engineers appreciated the industry visits as it showcased engineering applications and solutions. Kohlhofer observed that the bottle washers which are used at the company, Krones are what is used at South African Breweries in Newlands, which shows that there are existing international links which we are now aware of.

Ngunoue Cynthia Kauami from NUST said: "What was really profound was the visit to the businesses and seeing the innovativeness coupled with the drive for social good. This is an angle of doing business with moral ambition that has become pressing in our context and even more so, our classrooms. As lecturers in the area of entrepreneurship, we've started moving towards having SDG related themes that students are required to craft business concepts around. The engagements in Flensburg have solidified this more."

Katenda emphasised the importance of leadership and governance and partnerships and said: "The engagement at the Schleswig-Holstein Parliament provided a deeper appreciation of the governance and policy frameworks that underpin successful skills ecosystems. The discussions demonstrated how political leadership, legislative support, and coordinated funding mechanisms shape the enabling environment for innovation, SME development, and workforce transformation. This reinforced the need for stronger policy–institution–industry alignment within CESAR partner countries.

“The visit to the myBoo Bamboo Bicycle Factory offered a compelling example of sustainable manufacturing and circular-economy innovation".

Of the tour to the Business Incubation Centre, Flensburg, Katenda said it "further demonstrated how structured incubation, mentorship, and prototyping support can nurture early-stage enterprises".

The historical-cultural excursion to Glücksburg Castle focused on partnership mapping and engagement that enhanced valuable cultural and relational depth to the workshop.

Kohlhofer emphasised that the visit also included "informal meetings/gatherings of the participants which allowed for the exchange of ideas, differences and similarities in working styles, which lead to closer working relationships.

Prof Bongani Ncube, Centre for Community Water Research Unit, reflected that the FUAS visit was well-planned and highly productive.

"The final activity – a visit to the Villekula social start-up – was a fitting conclusion to the programme. It showcased how social enterprises can blend education, sustainability, and community engagement in practical and impactful ways. Overall, the workshop strengthened my understanding of how successful skills and innovation ecosystems operate – from policy and governance to training delivery, enterprise support, and sustainable value chains.," said Katenda.

Scheepers concluded: "Perhaps the most memorable part of the experience was meeting passionate and like-minded individuals who are dedicated to community engagement and to improving people's lives through education. Their enthusiasm, generosity in sharing their knowledge, and commitment to making a meaningful difference were both motivating and inspiring."

The CESAR team also met at NUST in June 2026 and CPUT will host the delegation at the university from 4 to 11 October 2026.

Written by CPUT News
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Recently, the Bliss Hall Residence and House Navarre at the Wellington Campus came together to celebrate Heritage Day in a colourful display of culture, unity and tradition.

Over the years, House Navarre has maintained a unique tradition of choosing one residence to tie the knot with. Fulu Netshidzati, the Residence Manager of Bliss Hall Residence and House Navarre, said this means that the selected residence is symbolically married to Navarre for that particular year. “The partnership goes beyond the symbolic marriage, as the two residences commit to hosting events together, supporting one another and strengthening the spirit of unity among students,” Netshidzati notes.

For 2026, Bliss Hall Residence was chosen as House Navarre's partner, and the two residences celebrated their union in a memorable way by hosting a wedding ceremony showcasing different cultures and traditions.

The celebrations began with a Western-style wedding, followed by a traditional wedding ceremony. The event provided students with an opportunity to experience and appreciate the beauty of different wedding customs and cultural practices. Adding to the excitement, various cultural groups representing different tribes entertained the audience with vibrant traditional dances, showcasing the richness and diversity of South African heritage.

Netshidzati states that the wedding celebrations were preceded by lobola negotiations held by students over the weekend before the main event. The negotiations added authenticity to the occasion, giving students a chance to learn about and take part in one of the most significant traditions in many South African cultures. Students participated enthusiastically, making the build-up to the wedding just as memorable as the main celebration.

“The success of the event was a true reflection of teamwork, commitment and student participation. Special recognition goes to the Residence Management structures, including the House Committee, Peer Helpers and Residence Student Association (RSA), who worked tirelessly to bring the event to life,” notes Netshidzati, who played a significant role in ensuring the success of the celebration.

Netshidzati acknowledged their dedication, and in addition to the cultural festivities, more than 300 students were served food. “What made this even more remarkable was that the food was cooked and prepared by the very same committees responsible for organising the event. Their hands-on involvement demonstrated their commitment to student engagement and creating a memorable experience for everyone.”

He says: “The Bliss Hall and House Navarre Heritage Day celebration was more than just a wedding. It was a platform for cultural exchange, teamwork, unity and the preservation of traditions. Through music, dance, food and the symbolic union of the two residences, students were reminded of the importance of embracing diversity while celebrating what brings them together.”

Netshidzati continued: “It was great to see maximum participation from students, which contributed greatly to the success of the event. Credit goes to my House Management team for their hard work and dedication in making this event a success. I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to my colleague, Mrs Buntukazi Siphambili, for gracing the occasion and showing her support, and the support from our HOD Mr Zandile Jacobs who constantly checked on our progress.”

As the celebrations ended, the event left lasting memories and demonstrated the power of collaboration between residences. The partnership between Bliss Hall and House Navarre has set a meaningful example of how student leadership and active participation can turn an ordinary celebration into an unforgettable experience.

Written by CPUT News
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Prof Agnes Chigona, a distinguished educator, NRF C1-rated researcher, and the Tier 1 SARChI Chair as well as Director of the Global Institute for Teacher Education and Society (GITES), is “deeply honoured” to have received the Digital Skills Sovereignty Award at the SITA GovTech Digital Sovereignty Public Service Awards 2026 recently.

Chigona says this award recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to developing digital skills and capacity that empower citizens, strengthen institutions, and support South Africa's digital transformation agenda. “As an educator and researcher, this recognition is particularly meaningful because it acknowledges the role of research and education in building a digitally empowered society.”

Her first reaction when her name was announced as a winner was surprise, gratitude, and humility. “I felt honoured that the work I have dedicated myself to over many years had been recognised at a national level. At that moment, I reflected on the many students, colleagues, collaborators, and mentors who have journeyed with me. This achievement is not mine alone; it represents the collective efforts of many people committed to advancing education and digital innovation.”

She attributes this achievement to perseverance, collaboration, and a passion for making a meaningful contribution through research and education. Throughout her career, Chigona focused on understanding how digital technologies can be leveraged to improve educational opportunities, particularly for those who have historically been underserved. The support of her colleagues, students, research partners, CPUT, and funding agencies such as the National Research Foundation (NRF) has played a vital role in making this work possible.

Personally, this award is a humbling affirmation of the work she has been privileged to undertake throughout her academic career. “For GITES and the Faculty of Education, it highlights the quality, relevance, and impact of our research and teaching. For CPUT, this recognition demonstrates the university's contribution to advancing digital skills, innovation, and research excellence in South Africa. It showcases CPUT as an institution that is committed to producing knowledge and graduates capable of contributing to the country's digital future.”

Chigona believes this award reflects a sustained commitment to advancing digital skills through research, capacity development, and leadership. Over the years, she has worked to understand how technology can be used effectively to improve teaching, learning, and educational opportunities. Through mentoring postgraduate students, leading innovative research projects, building national and international partnerships, securing research funding, and contributing to policy and practice, “I have sought to promote the development of digital skills that support both individual and societal growth”.

“This award recognises those collective efforts and their impact.”

She also encourages emerging researchers to pursue research that matters and creates value for society. Be curious, remain resilient, and embrace collaboration. “Research is not always an easy journey, but persistence and commitment will yield results. Most importantly, focus on addressing real-world challenges and creating knowledge that can make a positive difference in people's lives and communities.”

Chigona is inspired mostly by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through education and research. “Knowing that our work can help improve educational outcomes, empower teachers and learners, and contribute to national development keeps me motivated. I am also inspired by the students and young researchers I mentor. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and determination remind me every day of the transformative power of education.”

Chigona emphasises that she is deeply grateful to receive the Digital Skills Sovereignty Award. “I accept it not only as a personal honour but as recognition of the collective efforts of my colleagues, students, collaborators, and the broader CPUT community. This award strengthens my commitment to continue contributing to the development of digital skills, educational innovation, and research that helps create a more inclusive and digitally empowered South Africa.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

What began as a way of expressing grief after the death of his grandmother has grown into a passion that has taken an Electrical Engineering student to the Top 10 of the highly contested Slam Jam Poetry Competition.

For Ntsako Mohlala, who is also the Chairperson of the CPUT Poetry Society, being selected as one of the competition’s 10 finalists is more than an achievement – it is confirmation that he is finding his place as a slam poet.

“It meant a lot to me. This is something that makes me believe I am a slam poet. It has inspired me to dream bigger and be bolder. Anything is possible, and this means I’m nine steps closer to the dream,” he says.

His relationship with poetry began unexpectedly.

After losing his grandmother, he started writing about how much he missed her.

His cousin and a friend eventually pointed out that what he was writing was poetry.

“I took it lightly,” he recalls.

Ntsako, who grew up in Mpumalanga, said his passion developed further after moving to Johannesburg, where a friend signed him up for the UJ Arts Academy.

In 2024 he moved to Cape Town and started slamming. He reached the top eight of the New Generation Democracy slam, where he was representing his province, Mpumalanga.

“I later joined Slam City where I frequently placed in the top 5 until last year, when I won the title back-to-back. I was active in the CPUT space at the same time, and I won the 2025 CPUT poetry competition. In 2026 I was voted in as chairperson of the poetry society and that has been the most fun I've had as a poet.”

He says poetry has afforded him the luxury of telling his story.

“Whenever I’m going on stage, I hope to touch people beyond the physical and bring out the healing and also to just make the audience feel like they're not doing life alone and whatever is happening to them is happening to me.”

Ntsako writes about self-discovery, belonging, longing, love, loss, detoxifying masculinity and social commentary.

He will be travelling to Durban from 4 to 10 October 2026, with the semi-finals and finals taking place at The Playhouse Theatre on 6 October 2026.

“Over 40 poets are meeting in Durban and for me getting to watch them is very exciting.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Bridging the worlds of academia and industry, the 2nd International Conference on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI (ICAILY 2026) will host leading international and national speakers to explore groundbreaking research and champion sustainable, equitable AI progress, with a special focus on Africa and the Global South.

The three-day event at the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre, Bellville Campus, from 28 to 30 September 2026, with the theme "Current Research · Industry Trends · Innovation," ICAILY 2026 will spotlight responsible AI, industrial AI, intelligent systems, and Agentic AI, promising a dynamic exchange of ideas and innovation.

The programme includes keynote addresses from leading international and national speakers, research presentations, industry keynotes, high-level discussion panels, and hands-on training and workshops delivered by leading experts, all designed to advance these objectives.

The conference covers a broad range of research tracks, including but not limited to:

• Core AI and Intelligent Systems.
• Responsible, Ethical & Trustworthy AI.
• Applied AI and Industry Solutions.
• AI for Health, Science & Sustainability.
• Human-Centred and Socially Impactful AI.

“This comprehensive scope reflects the breadth and depth of the research being presented at ICAILY 2026 and reinforces the conference's position as a leading international platform for AI and generative AI,” says Prof Ali Almaktoof, Associate Professor of Power Systems.

Almaktoof notes that CPUT's reputation as a leading university of technology, combined with Cape Town's standing as a global hub for innovation and its strong technology ecosystem, made the city a natural choice. “This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to advancing AI research and innovation on the African continent. As academic partner and host, and through the Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering (DEECE) and the Energy Institute, CPUT is proud to reinforce its role in this important international event.”

Sharing insights into the newly introduced AI-driven conference management system and how it transforms attendee engagement, Almaktoof, who is also Head: Centre for Research in Power Systems, says the AI-driven conference management system personalises the attendee experience through smart scheduling, networking recommendations, real-time updates, and analytics. “Integrated with our online platforms, it bridges the gap between in-person and virtual participants via live translation, intelligent matchmaking, and seamless interaction.”

He hopes attendees leave the conference with a clear understanding that AI development must be inclusive, ethical, and sustainable. Almaktoof adds that the conference emphasises that global collaboration, robust governance, and capacity building — especially in underrepresented regions — are essential to ensuring AI benefits all of humanity. The ICAILY 2026 Awards and Distinguished Guests Recognition Ceremony will recognise outstanding contributions, with the top three best research articles being awarded during the ceremony.

Highlighting the urgent roadblocks to achieving global trust in these technologies, he says the most pressing challenges include the lack of transparent governance frameworks, data privacy and security concerns, algorithmic bias, and the digital divide.

“Addressing these requires not only technical solutions but also international cooperation, capacity building, and inclusive policy design. Without clear accountability and shared standards, trust in these technologies will remain uneven across regions and sectors.”

He notes that strong research papers have been accepted for publication, backed by strong academic credentials, and that all accepted publications will appear as book chapters with Springer Nature, one of the world's leading academic publishers. The papers present rigorous, peer-reviewed research addressing real-world challenges. “In FinTech, we are seeing advances in fraud detection and decentralised finance; in cybersecurity, AI-driven threat intelligence; and in smart healthcare, predictive diagnostics and personalised medicine.”

Almaktoof also states that the Global Robotics Challenge provides a hands-on, competitive environment where teams can demonstrate autonomous systems in realistic scenarios.

The exhibition at ICAILY 2026 allows researchers and innovators to present their work directly to industry stakeholders, investors, and end-users. This interaction accelerates the translation of academic theory into market-ready solutions and keeps research aligned with real-world needs. The hybrid conference provides a benchmark against global best practices, which we will adapt to our local context to strengthen our national AI ecosystem. Almaktoof, a member of the CPUT organising committee, works with ICAILY Chairman Dr Ali Othman Al-Baji, DEECE, and the Energy Institute. The

insights gained at ICAILY 2026 will directly inform the national AI governance and regulatory frameworks.

“More than 40 CPUT students will be trained during the three-day conference, and certificates will be handed to those who complete the training. “This is a wonderful chance for our students, academic staff, and support staff to gain practical, industry-relevant skills at no cost.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For Dr Dorothy E. Esau joining CPUT in 2019 was more than the start of a new chapter. It was a homecoming.

Nearly three decades after graduating from the then Peninsula Technikon with a Higher Diploma in Education (Commerce), she returned to her alma mater as a lecturer in the Faculty of Education, helping to shape the next generation of teachers.

Today, Esau is known not only for her work in teacher education but also as an author and entrepreneur. Her journey has however been anything but conventional.

After graduating in 1990, she faced the harsh reality of a competitive job market and applied for approximately 80 teaching positions without success.

Determined to find an opportunity, she and her husband, Henry, visited schools in person until she secured her first teaching post at William Mason Primary School.

“After six years, I moved into the private and NGO sectors, where I worked in bookkeeping and also became a driving-school owner. Those years might look like a detour on an academic CV, but they taught me about business, people, resilience and life outside formal education.”

Her return to teaching in 2006 proved transformative.

She worked at The Settlers High School, Belhar High School and later Vista Nova High School, a school for learners with special educational needs.

“Working with learners with diverse educational needs and young people at risk fundamentally changed how I understood education. It deepened my commitment to inclusion and made me increasingly interested not simply in what we teach, but in the circumstances under which people learn, teach and flourish.

At 42, Esau made a decision to return to university.

“That decision weighed heavily on my husband and me because our two boys were watching us. I wanted them, and especially young people who do not always see people from backgrounds like ours represented in academic spaces, to understand that where you begin does not have to determine where you end.”

Determined to continue growing both personally and professionally, Esau completed a BEd Honours in Educational Management, followed by a Master's in Education.

She then established an ambitious goal for herself: "DocB450" – Doctorate Before 50.

Her doctoral research focused on beginner teachers and the support they require, a topic that would later influence much of her academic and professional work.

She is passionate about her role as a lecturer.

“I take the responsibility of preparing teachers very seriously because every student teacher sitting in my classroom will eventually stand in front of hundreds, perhaps thousands, of young people during a career. Our influence as teacher educators therefore travels much further than the students immediately in front of us.

“Of course I want my students to understand pedagogy, curriculum and professional practice. But I want more than technical competence. I want them to understand the human being who teaches.”

This commitment to supporting teachers extends beyond the university through EduFocus Connect, the organisation Esau founded.

The initiative emerged from a question that has guided much of her research and work: Who supports the teacher?

“My doctoral research into beginner teachers made the support gap particularly visible to me. I realised that professional development cannot only be about giving teachers more strategies, more content and, frankly, more things to do. Teachers also need spaces in which they can reconnect with purpose, develop professionally, receive mentoring, reflect honestly and attend to their holistic wellbeing.

“EduFocus Connect was created to help occupy that space. Our work centres on teacher professional development, holistic teacher wellbeing, mentoring, leadership development and support for pre-service and beginner teachers. This includes our SACE-endorsed Enhancing Holistic Teacher Wellbeing programme and our Ready to Teach initiative, which focuses on supporting the transition from university into the realities of professional teaching.”

She says there is a beautiful balance between her work at CPUT and EduFocus Connett.

“EduFocus Connect is an independent professional venture, distinct from CPUT, but the two spheres of my work are connected by a shared commitment to teacher development, wellbeing and educational transformation. EduFocus continues that conversation beyond the university. It keeps me connected to practising teachers, beginner teachers and school leaders. What I hear and learn in those spaces enriches the questions I bring into teacher education, while my academic and research background helps me ensure that EduFocus remains purposeful, reflective and evidence-informed.”

In March 2025, Esau was diagnosed with cancer and has shared this deeply personal story in her book titled My Story for His Glory.

“Writing gave me a way to make meaning of something that had interrupted life so suddenly. It allowed me to speak about fear, faith, vulnerability, family, gratitude and the fragility of the plans we make for ourselves.

“I also wanted my experience to serve a purpose beyond me. If telling my story could encourage even one person not to postpone a screening, to listen more carefully to

their body or to begin prioritising their holistic wellbeing, then something difficult could produce something useful.”

Esau credits much of her outlook and determination to her family.

“I grew up watching my parents raise eight children under challenging circumstances. My mother was a seamstress in a clothing factory and my father worked as a train conductor for the South African Railways. They may not have had material abundance, but what they gave us was immeasurable: family, faith, work ethic, creativity and the conviction that their children should have opportunities.

Her father was also a playwright and community activist who established the Alpha Omega Drama Group in the late1960s

“From my father, I learnt that your gifts should not exist only for yourself. Creativity could serve a community. Words could move people. Your voice could have purpose. My mother taught me something equally powerful, but in a quieter way. Watching her, I learnt that a woman does not have to compete with a man — or anybody else — in order to be counted.”

Her early life was spent “in a humble ‘sinkhuisie’ in Louw se Bos, Leonsdale, Elsies River. In the early 1970s, her family moved to Nooitgedacht, and she grew up in the Nooitgedacht/Bishop Lavis community as the youngest of eight children.

Her husband, Henry, has remained a constant source of support throughout every stage of her journey, from teacher and student to academic, entrepreneur and cancer survivor.

Today, the couple are both academics at CPUT and enjoy life as empty-nesters, spending time with their two sons and daughter-in-law, travelling and embracing the simple joys of life.”

CPUT's Vision 2030 values of Oneness and Smartness resonate deeply with her.

“Smartness without humanity can become impressive but disconnected. Oneness without thoughtful action can remain a good intention. We need both. We need to think well and care deeply.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

*One of Us is a new monthly feature that celebrates the people who bring CPUT’s values to life. Each edition will spotlight a staff member whose work and everyday actions exemplify our shared commitment to oneness and smartness.

From the historic buildings of CPUT’s Wellington Campus to the Castle of Good Hope and Robben Island, researchers at the Sustainable Heritage Research Unit (SHRU) are helping to deepen understanding of South Africa’s built heritage.

The unit was established to strengthen research, training and professional capacity in sustainable heritage conservation, in collaboration with the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA).

“The research programme focuses on developing a scientific understanding of historic buildings and their materials and translating that knowledge into practical conservation solutions,” said Prof Kumar Pallav, who leads the unit.

“One of our major research areas is developing a heritage cementing-materials catalogue for the Western Cape, with the longer-term objective of expanding this work to South Africa and the African continent. We sample and characterise historic mortars in terms of their aesthetic, physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. This information can then be used to develop compatible restoration mortars.”

The research also incorporates non-destructive testing, digital documentation and numerical modelling.

“The broader vision is to establish a Heritage Material Museum and Research Centre, where historic construction materials can be systematically catalogued, characterised and used for research, teaching and training.

“This work directly supports the objectives of the CPUT–SAHRA collaboration by connecting academic research with practical heritage conservation, professional training and capacity building.”

A long-standing Memorandum of Understanding between CPUT and the SAHRA was reaffirmed in December.

One of the key highlights thus far has been the research conducted on the Castle of Good Hope.

“The Castle has become an important research and learning site, including the development of a Heritage Material Card and investigations into historic construction materials and their conservation,” said Pallav.

At Robben Island, the research has contributed to the systematic understanding and documentation of heritage materials and its design associated with this internationally significant heritage site.

At Non-Pareille Manor House, the research has included non-destructive assessment, assessment of fire damage, and numerical modelling of this important historic structure, providing valuable insight into the behaviour and condition of historic construction.

Other highlights have included:

• The development of compatible restoration materials. Rather than simply replacing historic materials with modern products, the research investigates how restoration mortars can be designed to match the original materials and properties of heritage structures.
• Training and capacity development. A key achievement has been involving postgraduate students in heritage research and training professionals to develop the next generation of researchers and professionals who can work at the intersection of engineering and conservation.
• International collaboration. The work has developed links with international researchers and institutions, including collaboration on heritage mortar research with the University of Granada in Spain, IIT Bombay and IIT Mandi in India, and the University of Carleton, Canada.
• Strengthening the CPUT–SAHRA partnership. The collaboration has created opportunities for research, training, knowledge exchange and public engagement around South Africa's built heritage.

“Perhaps the most important highlight is that the research shows heritage conservation can be evidence-based and scientifically rigorous. Engineering and science do not replace heritage values; they provide additional tools to understand and protect them,” said Pallav.

*Earlier this month, SAHRA and CPUT hosted a Heritage Month webinar.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

As South Africa prepares to celebrate Heritage Day, the Sustainable Heritage Research Unit (SHRU) at CPUT is conducting research to understand, document and conserve the historic built environment of the Wellington Campus.

Prof Kumar Pallav, who heads the SHRU, says his team’s approach treats these buildings not simply as old structures, but as valuable sources of knowledge. The SHRU’s Dr Maphole Loke and the Education Faculty’s Dr Adrienne van As are also involved in the research.

“We investigate their materials, construction techniques, deterioration mechanisms and structural performance, while also exploring appropriate approaches for their conservation and future use.

“The research includes documenting and characterising historic construction materials such as masonry, mortar and stone, as well as applying non-destructive testing techniques such as Rebound Hammer and Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity testing. Where appropriate, digital and numerical modelling can also be used to understand structural behaviour and identify vulnerable areas.”

He said Goodnow Hall, Murray House, and Bliss Hall were being considered for meaningful research into the conservation and restoration of heritage buildings.

Historic buildings face a combination of environmental, material, structural and human-related threats.

One of the most significant threats is water and moisture ingress.

“Moisture can accelerate deterioration of historic mortar, masonry, plaster, timber and other materials. Changes in temperature and humidity, prolonged weather exposure, and inadequate drainage can further contribute to deterioration. Historic buildings require regular monitoring and maintenance, because early identification of deterioration can prevent much more serious and expensive damage later.”

The principal objectives of the research are to:

• Document and understand the historic buildings, their materials and construction techniques.
• Assess the buildings' current condition and structural performance using appropriate scientific and non-destructive techniques.
• Identify deterioration mechanisms and the factors contributing to damage.
• Characterise historic mortars, bricks, stone and other construction materials.
• Develop conservation and restoration approaches that are compatible with the original materials.
• Create a scientific knowledge base that can support long-term maintenance and conservation.
• Demonstrate how engineering, materials science and heritage conservation can work together to protect South Africa's built heritage.
• Train students and young researchers in interdisciplinary heritage conservation research.
• Understand the history, materials, technology, and significance so conservation interventions are informed by evidence rather than assumptions.

Pallav said the Wellington Campus buildings are not only part of CPUT's institutional history but form part of the broader social, architectural and cultural history of the Western Cape.

“Preserving built heritage does not mean freezing buildings in time or preventing them from having a modern purpose. Rather, it means finding a responsible balance between preservation, continued use, safety and adaptation.”

He said heritage conservation is also about passing knowledge from one generation to the next. “When we lose a historic building, we lose not only a physical structure but also materials, craftsmanship, construction knowledge, stories and a tangible connection with the past. On Heritage Day, I would encourage people to look at historic buildings differently. Instead of asking only, ‘How old is this building?’, we should also ask, ‘What can this building teach us?’”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.